Grilled Chicken Greek Salad has become my absolute go-to for a quick, satisfying meal that tastes like a Mediterranean vacation. I remember the first time I tried a true Greek salad years ago; the combination of salty feta, crisp veggies, and that tangy dressing was pure magic. Now, I’ve perfected this easy grilled chicken Greek salad recipe, and the aroma of oregano-marinated chicken hitting the grill always makes my mouth water. It’s a truly healthy grilled chicken salad that’s surprisingly simple to put together, even on busy weeknights. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Chicken Greek Salad
This salad is a winner for so many reasons! It’s incredibly flavorful, packed with fresh ingredients, and surprisingly quick to prepare. Here’s why it’s earned a permanent spot in my meal rotation:
- Amazing Taste: The combination of savory grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, salty feta, and briny olives is simply irresistible.
- Quick Prep: With about 15 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of grilling, you can have this delicious meal on the table in 30 minutes.
- Healthy Choice: This Healthy Grilled Chicken Greek Salad is loaded with lean protein and fresh produce, making it a fantastic option for a nutritious meal.
- Budget-Friendly: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples or easily found, making it an economical choice.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love the familiar flavors and textures in this satisfying salad.
- Versatile: It’s perfect for a light lunch, a satisfying dinner, or even as a make-ahead meal prep option.
- Nutrient-Dense: Enjoy a Healthy Grilled Chicken Greek Salad that fuels your body with essential vitamins and minerals.
Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Greek Salad
Gathering these fresh Grilled Chicken Greek Salad Ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Mediterranean dish. The star is, of course, the chicken, marinated to perfection for maximum flavor. We’ve got crisp romaine for that essential crunch, juicy tomatoes, and cool cucumber for freshness. Don’t forget the salty feta and briny Kalamata olives – they are key components that truly define a Greek salad.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts – marinate these for tender, flavorful chicken
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – for the chicken marinade
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice – adds brightness to the chicken marinade
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that savory depth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – classic Mediterranean herb
- 0.5 teaspoon salt – enhances all the flavors
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper – a little kick
- 8 oz rotini or fusilli pasta, cooked – adds substance and makes it a hearty meal
- 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce – the crisp, refreshing base
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – for bursts of sweetness
- 1 cup cucumber, diced – adds a cool, refreshing crunch
- 0.5 cup Kalamata olives, pitted – their salty, briny flavor is iconic
- 0.5 cup crumbled feta cheese – creamy and tangy, a must-have
- 0.25 cup red onion, thinly sliced – for a sharp, fresh bite
- For the Tzatziki Dressing:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt – the creamy base for our dressing
- 0.25 cup grated cucumber – adds moisture and a subtle cucumber flavor
- 1 clove garlic, minced – for a zesty punch in the dressing
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – brightens the dressing
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped – a fragrant herb that complements the yogurt
- Salt and pepper to taste – to perfectly season the dressing
How to Make Grilled Chicken Greek Salad
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and satisfying Grilled Chicken Greek Salad. The key to amazing flavor is marinating the chicken properly, and the creamy homemade dressing ties everything together perfectly.
- Step 1: Marinate the chicken. In a bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 0.5 teaspoon salt, and 0.25 teaspoon black pepper. Add the 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts and coat them well. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or for deeper flavor, cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
- Step 2: Grill the chicken. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill. Grill for about 6-8 minutes per side. You’re looking for that perfect char and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. The smell of the grilling chicken with the oregano is incredible! Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling before you slice it.
- Step 3: Prepare the tzatziki dressing. While the chicken rests, whip up the dressing. In a small bowl, combine 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 0.25 cup grated cucumber (make sure to squeeze out excess liquid!), 1 clove garlic, minced, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir it all together until creamy and well combined. This homemade Grilled Chicken Greek Salad Tzatziki is so fresh!
- Step 4: Assemble the salad base. In a large bowl, combine the 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce, 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, 1 cup cucumber, diced, 0.5 cup Kalamata olives, pitted, 0.5 cup crumbled feta cheese, and 0.25 cup red onion, thinly sliced. This is how to make grilled chicken Greek salad look so vibrant just from the veggies!

- Step 5: Add the chicken and pasta. Top the colorful salad base with the sliced grilled chicken from Step 2 and the 8 oz rotini or fusilli pasta, cooked.
- Step 6: Dress and serve. Drizzle the prepared tzatziki dressing over the salad. Toss everything gently to combine, ensuring all those delicious ingredients get coated. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade masterpiece!
Pro Tips for the Best Grilled Chicken Greek Salad
Want to elevate your salad game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make this Grilled Chicken Greek Salad absolutely perfect every time. These simple tips ensure fantastic flavor and texture.
- Always marinate your chicken for at least 15 minutes. This infuses the meat with flavor and helps tenderize it.
- Don’t overcook the chicken! Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for juicy results.
- Squeeze excess liquid from the grated cucumber for the tzatziki dressing. This prevents a watery dressing.
- Toast your pita bread or serve with warm pita on the side for a complete Mediterranean experience.
What’s the secret to perfect grilled chicken for Greek salad?
The secret to perfect grilled chicken for Greek salad truly lies in the marinade and not overcooking. A simple mix of olive oil, lemon, garlic, and oregano tenderizes and flavors the chicken beautifully. Knowing how to grill chicken for Greek salad means watching it closely and pulling it off the heat as soon as it hits 165°F. For more grilling tips, check out this guide on grilling chicken.
Can I make Grilled Chicken Greek Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely prep components of this Grilled Chicken Greek Salad ahead of time! Marinate the chicken, chop the veggies, and make the dressing up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Add the dressing and toss right before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Grilled Chicken Greek Salad?
A few common pitfalls can easily be avoided. First, don’t skip marinating the chicken; it’s crucial for flavor. Second, resist the urge to over-mix the salad once dressed, as this can make the lettuce wilt. Lastly, ensure your tzatziki dressing isn’t too watery by squeezing the grated cucumber well.
Best Ways to Serve Grilled Chicken Greek Salad
This vibrant Grilled Chicken Greek Salad is a star on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a few complementary elements. Think of it as the main event with delicious supporting acts! The fresh flavors and satisfying textures make it perfect for a light lunch or a more substantial dinner.
- As a Standalone Meal: Honestly, this salad is so hearty and flavorful, it’s fantastic all by itself. The combination of protein from the chicken, healthy fats from the dressing, and fiber from the veggies makes it a complete and satisfying meal.
- With Warm Pita Bread: Serving this salad with warm, fluffy pita bread is a classic choice. It’s perfect for scooping up the delicious dressing and adding an extra layer of texture.
- Alongside Grilled Halloumi: For an extra Mediterranean kick and more delicious Greek salad toppings, consider serving a small side of grilled halloumi cheese. It adds a salty, chewy element that complements the chicken perfectly.

Nutrition Facts for Grilled Chicken Greek Salad
This Grilled Chicken Greek Salad is a fantastic choice for a healthy and satisfying meal. It’s packed with lean protein and fresh ingredients that provide a good balance of nutrients.
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Grilled Chicken Greek Salad
Proper storage is key to enjoying this delicious Grilled Chicken Greek Salad for days to come. Once cooled, I like to store the main salad components (lettuce, veggies, chicken, pasta) and the dressing separately in airtight containers. This keeps everything fresh and prevents the salad from getting soggy. You can typically store the prepared salad in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions of components like the grilled chicken and pasta, but I don’t recommend freezing the assembled salad as the texture of the lettuce and fresh vegetables won’t hold up well. If you need to reheat, gently warm the chicken and pasta in a skillet or microwave, then toss with the fresh salad components and dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Grilled Chicken Greek Salad
What is in a Grilled Chicken Greek Salad?
A classic Grilled Chicken Greek Salad typically includes grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese. My version also adds pasta for a heartier meal, and it’s all brought together with a creamy tzatziki dressing. The beauty of this salad is its adaptability, so feel free to add bell peppers or pepperoncini!
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this salad?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Just shred or dice it and toss it in with the other salad ingredients. It makes assembling this Grilled Chicken Greek Salad even quicker!
Why is my feta cheese making the salad too salty?
Feta cheese can vary in saltiness. If you find your feta cheese salad component is too salty, you can rinse the crumbled feta under cold water for a moment before adding it to the salad. This helps wash away some of the brine. You can also adjust the amount of salt in the dressing and marinade accordingly.
What are good side dishes to serve with Grilled Chicken Greek Salad?
This salad is quite complete on its own, but if you’re looking for sides, warm pita bread is a classic choice. A light lentil soup or some roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers would also complement the flavors beautifully. Anything that doesn’t overpower the fresh, vibrant taste of the salad works well!
Variations of Grilled Chicken Greek Salad You Can Try
While this recipe for Grilled Chicken Greek Salad is fantastic as is, I love experimenting with different twists to keep things exciting! Whether you’re looking for a diet modification or a new flavor profile, here are a few ideas that I’ve found to be delicious.
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap the grilled chicken for grilled halloumi cheese or a generous portion of chickpeas. This makes for a wonderful meat-free option that still delivers on flavor and texture.
- Quick Skillet Version: No grill? No problem! You can easily pan-sear the marinated chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through. The result is similar to a Chicken Gyro Salad Grilled, just without the smoky char.
- Spicy Mediterranean Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade or sprinkle some thinly sliced jalapeños over the finished salad for a fiery kick.
- Citrus Herb Boost: Experiment with adding different herbs like parsley or mint to the salad base, or a squeeze of fresh orange juice in the dressing for a brighter, more complex flavor profile.
Grilled Chicken Greek Salad: 30 Min Amazing Meal
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and protein-packed Grilled Chicken Greek Salad featuring fresh vegetables, crumbled feta, Kalamata olives, and a creamy tzatziki dressing. This recipe is customizable and perfect for a healthy lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 oz rotini or fusilli pasta, cooked
- 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 0.5 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 0.5 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 0.25 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- For the Tzatziki Dressing:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 0.25 cup grated cucumber
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat well. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- Grill the chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
- Prepare the tzatziki dressing: In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and sliced red onion.
- Add the chicken and pasta: Top the salad with the sliced grilled chicken and cooked pasta.
- Dress and serve: Drizzle the tzatziki dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, substitute grilled halloumi cheese or chickpeas for the chicken.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or artichoke hearts.
- Store leftover salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg










